Fern Droz

Fern Droz, 92, of Miller, passed away Wednesday, December 16, 2020 at Good Samaritan Society in Miller.

Memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, July 2, 2021, at the First Presbyterian Church, Rev. Brian Jones, officiating.  Immediately following the service there will be a reception and dinner in the church hall.

Fern Elizabeth Matre was born June 21, 1928, in Highmore, SD, the daughter of Paul G. and Dollie Mae (Hapney) Matre.  She was educated in the Highmore schools and worked and managed NaDeau Dress Shop until her marriage to Charles Droz on June 21, 1948.

They farmed and ranched southwest of Miller and were blessed with a family of six children, Marilyn, Cathi, Eric, Kent, Marcia, and Janelle.  They moved to Miller and later to McLean, VA near Washington, D.C., where Charles worked until they retired.  They returned to Miller for the summers and had a winter home in Mesa, AZ, which they enjoyed for twenty years.

Fern’s family was her life, being active with her husband in agricultural duties, and with her children’s activities.  She was a member of the Presbyterian Church where she was a Deacon, a Sunday school teacher, as well as a member of the Presbyterian Women’s Fellowship.  Fern was involved in school activities, 4-H, was a Brownie leader, and enjoyed visiting shut-ins.

Fern helped restore the McWhorter House Museum and Depot.  She was chairman of the Hand County Historical Society in her early years.

Fern Droz was known state-wide, not because she was related to or was acquainted with well-known people, they knew her personally for her past duties and for her memorable personality.  Her tireless volunteer work in her church, in the community and on the state level at fairs and conventions was recognized and appreciated by so many.

Fern was nominated in 2006 for Spirit of Dakota Award.  Even though she was an amazing mother and person, she always tried to avoid publicity.  To her surprise, she got recognition, which she deserved despite her shyness.  Fern’s trademark was her disarming smile. She will be missed by many.

 She is survived by her husband, Charles Droz; and a host of special relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; infant twin siblings; her brothers: Glenn (Amy), Raymond, Donald (Delores); sister, Marie; and son, Eric Droz.

Reck Funeral Home of Miller has been entrusted with Fern's arrangements.